Before 1779 some Texas cattle had been sold to Mexico but most of the meat and hides from the Texas cattle was used locally
for sustenance and trade within the region. The cattle were an essential part of the economy in Spanish Texas, providing food, clothing, and other essential products for the settlers and indigenous populations living in the area.
However, in 1779, the first large-scale cattle drive from Texas to Mexico occurred, marking the beginning of the cattle industry in the region. This drive, led by Spanish ranchers, introduced Texas cattle to markets in Mexico and established a profitable trade route between the two regions.
Over time, the Texas cattle industry grew in importance, with ranchers raising larger herds for export to Mexico and other markets. The demand for Texas cattle continued to increase, leading to the development of new ranching techniques and the establishment of large-scale cattle ranches throughout the region.
By the mid-19th century, the Texas cattle industry had become a major economic force in the region, providing significant revenue and employment opportunities for Texans. The iconic image of the cowboy and the longhorn cattle became synonymous with Texas, representing the state's rich history and heritage in the cattle industry.